A knockout fundraising idea for Pine Tree Camp

Karate kids will compete locally to be named the best at a local karate tournament on Oct. 27 with check in at 9 a.m. and tournament starting at 10 a.m. However, it’ll be the Pine Tree Camp in Rome, Maine that will be the real winner.

For the second year in a row, the Eastern Maine School of Self Defense in Veazie will host an annual tournament at 1040 School Street in Veazie. The Pine Tree Camp will be the beneficiary of the tournament, its silent auction, and a raffle for a kayak and accessories.

“We all know life throws punches,” said Glen Kennedy, an instructor and sensei at EMSSD. “We try to block as many as possible. With this tournament we are able to help those who need and deserve the ability to share in the joys of life.”

Pine Tree Camp, located in Rome, provides people with disabilities the opportunity to have a traditional summer camp experience. The camp is a program of Pine Tree Society in Bath. The non-profit works with adults and children with disabilities. Kennedy’s father, Reginald, spent six months at the Hyde Memorial Home while being treated for polio.

That’s why when the students of the EMSSD chose Pine Tree Camp as the beneficiary for the 2011 tournament it was even more special.

“Last year we asked that the money raised would go toward a fund to make the facilities more accessible,” Kennedy said. “This year we would like to do the same and support and also help more kids attend. The Eastern Maine School of Self Defense is once again proud to host this martial arts tournament to support Pine Tree Camps and 100 percent of all profits go directly to the Pine Tree Camp.”

Last year the tournament was home to over 100 competitors. Kennedy expects that 2012 will be even greater. Students compete in several events including Kata (forms)m Kumite (fighting), Bunki (forms with partners), Kobudo (forms with traditional weapons).

“I know a family in Carmel that attend Pine Tree Camps every year and I witness them holding fundraisers yearly,” Kennedy said. “[Last year] I asked the family how to get involved. This is long before I knew my father’s connection with Pine Tree Camp. As you know, Pine Tree Camp is local and works with local families. We really wanted our efforts to stay local.”

Additional prizes will be given for the individual and school that raises the largest amount of money for Pine Tree Camp. To find out more about Pine Tree Camp, visit www.pinetreesociety.org/camp.asp